Mali suspends France 24 and RFI

18 March 2022

Mali has suspended French international broadcasters France 24 television and RFI radio in the country.

On 17 March, a Malian government spokesman accused the two broadcasters of “destabilising the transition, demoralising the Malian people and discrediting the valiant FAMa”.

The announcement went on to say that RFI on shortwave and France 24 TV, plus the broadcasters’ digital platforms, would be suspended until further notice.

French President Emmanuel Macron condemned the Malian government’s decision on Thursday.

“I condemn with the greatest firmness this decision, which seems to me totally at odds with the values espoused by the people of Mali since its independence,” he said at a news conference in Paris.

Responding to the Malian government’s order, France Médias Monde said it “deplored” the decision and “strongly protested against the unfounded accusations that seriously undermine the professionalism of its broadcasters”.

In a statement released on 17 March, FMM said it would “study all avenues of appeal to ensure that such a decision is not implemented”. The group also reiterated its “unwavering commitment to freedom of information and the professionalism of its journalists”.